Precision Metal Working at Monroe Community College

At an estimated $11,562 in debt, this program comes in slightly below what's typical for precision metalworking nationally, while first-year earnings of $40,155 land right at the state median. That's a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29—meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in less than four months of gross income. For families concerned about affordability, particularly relevant given that 47% of Monroe students receive Pell grants, the financial math looks workable.

What's less encouraging is the minimal earnings growth—just 2% from year one to year four—and the fact that first-year earnings sit below the national median for this field. Monroe graduates earn competitively within New York (hitting the state median exactly), but they're starting about $1,350 below what precision metalworking graduates typically earn nationwide. Programs like SUNY Alfred show that associate graduates in this field can break into the low $40,000s, suggesting room for variation even within New York.

The practical takeaway: This program offers a low-risk entry point into skilled trades with debt that won't become a burden, but earnings appear to plateau quickly and start modestly compared to peer programs nationally. For students prioritizing immediate employment with minimal debt over long-term wage growth, the numbers work—just don't expect significant income gains after that first job.